Geopolitical and Diplomatic Events

U.S.-Russia Summit:

A highly anticipated summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to take place in Alaska. The talks are focused on the Russia-Ukraine war, with Trump suggesting a deal could be reached and both leaders expressing a desire to end the conflict. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stated that talks "about us, without us, will not work."

Middle East Tensions:

The conflict in the Gaza Strip continues to be a major focus. There have been reports of Israeli airstrikes, and an Israeli minister has approved a new settlement in the West Bank, which he claims "buries the idea of a Palestinian state." Aid groups have accused Israel of "weaponizing aid" with new registration rules.

South China Sea:

Tensions in the region have escalated with the U.S. deploying warships to a disputed shoal after two Chinese ships collided while chasing a boat from the Philippines.